A recent meeting of the Joint Judiciary Committee in Colorado highlighted urgent concerns regarding the backlog of sexual assault kit processing, a critical issue affecting survivors and the justice system. Survivors and advocates voiced their frustrations over the lengthy wait times, which have now reached an alarming average of 517 days, nearly doubling since the previous year.

One survivor, who spoke candidly about her traumatic experience, emphasized the emotional toll of waiting for justice. She described feeling unsafe in her own home and expressed deep concern for her daughter’s safety while her alleged perpetrator remains free. Her testimony underscored the need for immediate action to address the backlog, which she described as "inhumane" and a deterrent for others considering reporting assaults.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) acknowledged the backlog, attributing it to a combination of staffing shortages and a recent scandal involving a former lab analyst who compromised over 1,000 cases. CBI officials stated that they are actively working to rectify the situation by hiring additional forensic scientists and exploring outsourcing options to expedite processing times.

Committee members expressed their commitment to finding solutions, with discussions centered on potential legislative measures and funding to support the necessary staffing and resources. They emphasized the importance of timely processing for both the sake of survivors and the integrity of the justice system, noting that delays can lead to wrongful accusations and hinder the prosecution of offenders.

As the meeting concluded, lawmakers pledged to keep the issue at the forefront of their agenda, recognizing that the current state of the backlog not only impacts survivors but also the broader community's trust in the justice system. The urgency of the situation has prompted calls for a more aggressive approach to ensure that no survivor has to endure the prolonged wait for justice that many have faced.